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Merck, Caterpillar and Aetna
Are Losers in a Broad Decline

NEW YORK -- Major market averages fell sharply in a volatile trading session, with industrial and consumer stocks bearing the brunt of the decline.

Two consumer giants, drug-maker Merck , which lost 2 3/16 to 105 1/8, and Procter & Gamble , which dropped 1 15/16 to 79 3/8, gave ground, as investors sniped at more names in the group just one day after Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing skidded on a disappointing profit forecast....